Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida

By AishaWakaso

Former Military President General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida on the occasion of his 71st birthday Friday made a birthday wish asking Nigerians to continue to pray for the survival of Nigeria because "Nigerians have no other country they can call our own."

Babangida, who said Nigeria was indivisible challenged Nigerians of all ages to ensure they do everything possible to keep the nation one.

The former President made this known at his hill top residence in Minna when he played host to the Niger State Acting Governor Alhaji Ahmed Musa Ibeto who led a delegation to felicitate with him on his birthday.

Babangida said there was still hope that Nigeria will become one of the greatest country not only in Africa but in the entire world.

‘We should pray for the survival of Nigeria; we have to work together as a people. We must make it (Nigeria) work. Anything you can do to keep Nigeria together, do it. The country will be better for it."

The former Military President expressed gratitude to the government and people of Niger State and entire Nigerians for always identifying with him saying he will continue to remain committed to the country and Nigerians.

Ibeto who led the delegation said the government and people of the state would continue to appreciate the Babangida’s landmarks in the country’s history, "especially in the areas of economic and political developments and social regeneration.

Ibeto said that Babangida has taught Nigerians how to continue to pursue policy and programmes that will bring about National unity integration and development-saying Nigeria will continue to rely on the wisdom of the former Nigerian military President.

Peoples from all walks of life thronged the hill top residence of the former military president where prayers were offered for his long life and good health.